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Water utility rules set

The ground rules have been established for any private water utilities wanting to be taken over by the public.

The Regional District of North Okanagan board has established a utility acquisition policy.

“It clarifies to the operator of the utility and the users of the utility what the expectations are (if they become part of RDNO),” said director Mike Macnabb.

The goal of the policy is to ensure no financial burdens are imposed on existing RDNO customers and to reduce the district’s liability.

“They have to transfer all water licenses and there must be a financial plan to upgrade and repair the system,” said Macnabb of private utilities.

Firefighting deal inked

Fire protection will continue for a rural area near Enderby.

The Regional District of North Okanagan has renewed an agreement for the Columbia-Shuswap Regional District to provide fire suppression services to Twin Lakes and Grandview Bench.

“There are no changes in the proposed five-year agreement,” said Ron Baker, protective services manager.

The agreement has been in place since 1984 and the service is provided by the Ranchero-Deep Creek Fire Department, which is part of CSRD.

“The agreement provides a good service for a reasonable cost,” said Baker.

Annual payments to CSRD have ranged from $51,441 to $61,767 over the past five years, with the 2012 budget set at $54,674.

Predator swings up interest

Area politicians are being urged to take an active interest in a major business.

The Regional District of North Okanagan has been provided with a copy of a report that shows the economic impact of Predator Ridge Resort.

“They are a keen investor in the area and they employ a lot of people,” said Patrick Nicol, board chairperson.

Director Rick Fairbairn has already looked at the document.

“Tourism is an economic driver and the report illustrates that,” he said.

“When tourism-related activities come to our municipal councils and the regional district, we need to keep that in mind.”

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